Fatemeh and Esmat are only two women among hundreds of women who are part of the CSP.

The CSP was initiated in South Khorasan Province more than a decade ago. One of the aims of the project was to promote socio-economic development by creating jobs and income generation – both for men and women.

Today the project covers 18 provinces of Iran.

One of the key reasons for the project’s success is that at the heart of the project lies a simple goal – women’s empowerment.

In commemoration of Iran national Women’s Day – a day to reflect on progress made and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in their communities – we are telling Fatemeh and Esmat’s stories.